POLICE in Co Derry are appealing for information after a car was set on fire and abandoned on railway tracks at a level crossing.
It happened on the Limestone Road, Limavady last night, Monday April 12th.
The incident occurred at around 9 pm on the railway line between Derry and Coleraine.
A train with passengers on board was forced to make an emergency stop.
Chief Inspector MclIdowney described the incident as “reckless endangerment to life”.
He praised the “heroics of our colleagues in the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service”.
“Our investigation is currently underway to establish the circumstances into this incident.
“We are appealing for any witnesses to contact police on quoting serial number 1945 of the 12/04/21.”
“The railway line has now reopened.”
You can also submit a report line using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/
Chris Conway, Translink group chief executive, said: “The train driver reacted quickly and thankfully brought the train to a stop safely, short of where the car was burning.
“The train crew ensured all safety procedures were followed with the incident swiftly reported and emergency services attended the scene.
“The train returned to Coleraine Station, where six passengers got off safely for onward connections by road. It is very fortunate that no-one has been injured in this incident”.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said she was “deeply concerned and troubled” by the incident.
“The train travelling from Belfast to Derry was brought thankfully to a stop by the train driver who acted quickly before the train reached the burning car on the track,” she said.
“I am so relieved to hear that passengers and crew are all safe.
“It is unimaginable to think what could have happened this evening had it not been for the prompt action of the driver and crew.
“I want to express my gratitude to them and to the emergency services.”
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